Here’s Rep. Pete Stark, D-Fremont, chairman of the Ways and Means Health Subcommittee, at a Capitol news conference after yesterday’s markup of the economic stimulus package, speaking about funding for health information technology as well as extensions and subsidies for health coverage for the unemployed:

Just like the beloved George Miller, Stark has been there WAY too long.

ted ford

According to Wikipedia, Pete Stark used to run a bank in Walnut Creek. His first race was against George Miller’s father. Stark was then a Republican. Stark is a graduate of MIT and Haas Business School which is impressive. He is 78 and Congress’ only openly avowed Atheist. Silicon Valley has so many brilliant (and rich) young people. Someone should run against Stark.

“Today Stark is the longest-serving member of Congress from California. Ironically, Stark ran against George P. Miller, “For Miller being in Washington – too long, elected in 1944.” http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pete_Stark

Guy Bjerke

Congressman George Miller’s father was our State Senator and died in 1969.

ted ford

that’s right. Stark ran against George Miller (the elder) in the 1960′s. Stark will be 80 years old this next election cycle. Is there an heir apparent for this seat?